Sunday, February 20, 2011

70'S FOCUS : TALES THAT WITNESS MADNESS ... 1973 ..

PARAMOUNT PICTURES
Presents
From World Film Services

TALES THAT WITNESS MADNESS
Starring
KIM NOVAK as Auriol Pageant
JOAN COLLINS as Bella Thompson
JACK HAWKINS as DR Nicholas
DONALD HUSTON as Sam Patterson
MICHAEL JAYSTON as Brian Thompson
SUZY KENDALL as Ann Patrick / Beatrice
PETER MCENERY as Timothy Patrick / Albert
DONALD PLEASENCE as DR R.C.Tremayne
GEORGIA BROWN as Fay Patterson
MARY TAMM as Ginny Pageant
FRANK FORSYTH as Uncle Albert
RUSSELL LEWIS as Paul Patterson
MICHAEL PETROVITCH as Kimo

Assistant Director - Peter Saunders
Director of Photography - Norman Warwick B.S.C
  Music by Bernard Ebbinghouse
    Art Director -  Roy Walker

    Screenplay by Jay Fairbank(Jennifer Jayne)

      Edited by Bernard Gribble
        Produced by Norman Priggen

          Directed by Freddie Francis

                 ------------

DON'T POINT THAT THING AT ME DEAR!




At his private clinic, DR Tremayne (Pleasence), has been monitoring four of his mental patients, each with a strange background. An old friend DR Nicholas (Hawkins), arrives to see how he is progressing and hears each of their tales!

"MR TIGER"
          Young Paul has an imaginary friend, who is eating the family out of house and home. When his parents decide to put a stop to the boys strange behaviour, little do they know, that they are next on the menu!

DARLINGS I AM THINKING OF BRANCHING OUT!

"PENNY FARTHING"

               Timothy Patrick (MCENERY) and his girlfriend Ann (Kendall), run an antique shop, when his aunt dies, she leaves him her antiques. But he soon finds hinself caught up in the past and under the influence of his late Uncle Albert (Forsyth), with fiery consequences!
"MEL"


     Brian Thompson (Jayston), lives in a woodland bungalow with his headstrong wife Bella (Joan). But Bella soon finds herself competing for Brian's affections, from a malevolent tree, he had just brought home! But when it comes to the crunch...Who will get the chop!!
"LUAU"

AURIOL DEMONSTRATES THE BAT STROKE!

      Auriol Pageant, a literary agent, agrees to let her latest star client Kimo, a south seas, American educated writer stay at her luxury home. But Kimo has a dark secret and takes an interest in her daughter Ginny. In the end, Auriol will get a cut of Kimo's profits... But it is a cut of Ginny, he wants!!
DR Nicholas listens to each tale, but fails to be impressed and poor demented Tremayne is taken away to join the other patients, leaving Nicholas alone to discover the true Tales That Witness Madness!!


 (1973)  PARAMOUNT  RATED 15  90 MINS  COLOUR

This was Joan's second venture into the portmanteau film and her second for director Freddie Francis. They had both worked together the previous year on the now classic "Tales From The Crypt". Joan's segment is one of the more memorable stories, if not the most ludicrous, as she has to compete with a tree, for her husbands affections! Although she has had to act with many wooden actors in her time, this had no comparison! The film was also notable for been the first film in three years for Hollywood legend Kim Novak. But she was not originally slated to star in the film, but another Hollywood great, Rita Hayworth. But she was in the latter stages of Alzheimer's and her behaviour on the set was erratic. Rita could not remember her lines, while on occasion prone to violent outbursts. She finally ran away from the Shepperton set, after only four days and went back to America. Kim Novak had stated that she had not made any films for a few years, as she had not been offered any good roles. One wonders why she decided to do this film, as it was hardly Oscar material! The film proved to be the final screen appearance of actor Jack Hawkins, who had been suffering with throat cancer. His voice was dubbed by actor Charles Gray, Hawkins sadly died before production finished on the film. Joan had appeared with Jack in her first big Hollywood release "Land Of The Pharaoh's". Donald Pleasence would go on to star with Joan in the 1975 shocker, "I Don't Want To Be Born", while Georgia Brown would co-star in "The Bawdy Adventures Of Tom Jones", where Joan played Black Bess. The film got mixed reviews, most of them not very good.


DARLING! ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR TREE!





VILLAGE VOICE 

MY HUSBAND HAS BECOME A TREE SURGEON!

" In "Tales That Witness Madness", the humour lacks wit, the horror lacks poetry. Kim Novak's reappearance is easily eclipsed by Joan Collins, who still looks a knockout, two decades after "Land Of The Pharaoh's".
So although the film got bad reviews, Joan continued to stand out, even within a notable cast. Viewed in the context of the horror genre, it's certainly an enjoyable film. It was available on video many years ago, but sadly it still has to surface on DVD....


 (C) 2011  MARK MC MORROW

Saturday, February 19, 2011

PHOTO OF THE DAY : JOAN'S SUFFERS FOR HER ART!

This rare photo features Joan having makeup applied for a scene in the 1970 spy thriller "The Executioner".. Joan's character in the film is shot and wounded, thus the wounds been applied!

DYNASTY REVISITED : EP.2 : NIGHT CALLS!!

REVISITED

Last time on Dynasty Revisited : Alexis and Blake discover Jeremy Van Dorn is still at large after faking his arrest! Adam asks Kirby to marry him! Fallon announces to Alexis that she is pregnant! While Blake vows to protect his family... Alexis is terrified by a note from Jeremy!!

Between heaven and hell.. Between darkness and light. In twilight limbo, she was running away from the darkness.. or was she running towards the light? She could hear voices behind her..Or were the voices up ahead of her? Behind her she sensed darkness and danger and the voices were the Dutch menacing tones of Jeremy Van Dorn. Ahead of her in the light she could hear words of love and hope..She could hear Dex!
She ran faster to escape the darkness, to get closer to Dex, whom she could now see standing there in the light. Although she could not actually see his face, his voice was unmistakable, soft and familiar. His arms were outstretched to pull her close, to hold her like he had before.
"Alexis! Alexis! We will be together... Forever!!"
She could almost touch him now, she had finally escaped the darkness and the danger that lay within. She entered the light, her arms finally embracing the man she loved, not wanting to let him go. She opened her eyes to gaze at his face once again, but the eyes that stared back at her were not Dex's eyes!
"Alexis! You can't escape me now!"
He had tricked her and she had blindly run into the arms of the beast..into the arms of darkness! Van Dorn's eyes were cold, his grip tightening around her, his laugh menacing.
"Alexis! You belong to me now!!"
His laugh sending chills through her as the light faded into impending darkness.....
Alexis woke suddenly, she sat up, perspiring and out of breath as if she had actually ran a marathon. The nightmare had almost seemed real, but she was safe, all alone in her penthouse. Van Dorn must be caught, she would never rest easy until he was captured. She wondered when he would strike again.. His twisted idea of romance, sending her unwanted flowers along with chilling notes attached! He was fond of the Valentine approach, having sent her several before she foolishly got involved with him. Alexis lay back and tried to get some nightmare free sleep, she had to get a grip of herself. After all she was the unstoppable Alexis Colby, who made men fall at her feet!


Adam Carrington read through the minutes of the Colbyco weekly board meeting, which commenced in about an hour. He could not quite concentration on the words typed on the sheet, all he could think of was Kirby. He was on tenderhooks waiting on her to give him a reply to his proposal. He did love her, but could understand her reasons for her delay in forthcoming with her answer. Adam sat back, almost on another planet, when the buzz of his intercom brought him back to reality.  Kirby had arrived, his heart began to pound and sweat formed on his brow. As he jumped from his chair, she entered the office.
"Good morning Adam! I hope I did not come at a bad time.. I can call back if you are busy!"
Adam took her outstetched hands, her big puppy dog eyes starring up at him. Kirby loved Adam and she knew he loved her, despite their past. She had found herself a nice apartment in Denver, even though Blake and Krystle had invited her to stay at the mansion, she doubted if she could ever live there again.
"Kirby! You can call in anytime. I am always glad to see the girl I love! I do love you. You do know that?"
Adan held her closer and the moment felt like heaven, he wished it would never end.
"Adam! Before you ask me to give you an answer to your marriage proposal... I need you to understand that the past is the past and I have truly forgiven you for all that happened back then."
Kirby paused to catch her breath, to let him absorb her words.
"I see. So what you are trying to say is, that you have forgiven me..but won't marry me. Am I correct!"
Adam released her from his grasp and stood back, he had been certain she would have accepted his proposal.
" Look Adam! I am not saying I won't ever marry you. I just can't marry you now! Why don't we give each other some time to get to know each other again?"
With that she kissed him, to somehow soften the blow. He was about to put his arms around her, to make the kiss more passionate, when the office door burst open. Mommie Dearest had arrived, filling the air with the scent of Shalimar, on spying Kirby, her jewellry rattling to show her dissapproval.
"Mother! Making your grand entrance as usual! What can I do for you?"
Adam wiped the sweat from his brow, Kirby was far from pleased to see Alexis, raising her eyebrows to voice her anoyance at the interruption.
"Good morning darling! I see you have a visitor. Kirby Anders. Here about a job dear? I did not know you were looking for a new secretary, Adam. That is the downfall of cutting loose from the day to day running of ones company!"
Alexis pursed her scarlet lips and lit up a cigarette.
"Kirby dear! I am sure Adam can find you something to suit your talents!"
Cigarette well lit, Alexis began to pour herself a tonic with ice and a slice of lemon.
"Mother!! Kirby and I are back together again. That is, if you have no objections this time?"
Alexis took a sip of her beverage, then smiled and faced both of them, her hands on her hips.
"Objections! Darling you are a grown man, who is more than capable of dealing with any mistakes you might make!"
Alexis threw herself onto the sofa and took another sip of her tonic whilst puffing on her Moore menthol. Kirby was huffed now and gave Adam a brief kiss, she then stormed out of the office, her head in the air.
"Mother! What that really necessary? You can be so cruel!"
Adam stood over her, a little furious, but then he had learned to expect such outbursts from his mother.
" Darling! Don't worry about her! Worry about your mother! I need help! I have been having terrible nightmares. The thing is, I need protection! I am considering hiring a bodyguard. What do you think?"
Adam folded his arms, pondering her request for a moment, finally agreeing with her.
"It would not do any harm, considering the situation with that madman at large. Leave it with me. I will get on it straight away. I'll make sure you get the best. It's only a matter of time before they track down Jeremy Van Dorn!"
Alexis smiled, she would be more than glad to see that time come, make no mistake!


It was a glorious day, the sun shone over the Carrington mansion, it's rays streaming through the many windows. Fallon Colby lay on her bed, she should be in a celebratory mood. What with her reconciliation with Jeff and now a baby on the way. But she was worried, lost in thought, so lost she failed to hear a knock on her bedroom door.
"Can I come in? I missed you at lunch!"
Krystle entered the room and sat down on the bed, she could tell that Fallon had some worries on her mind.
"Krystle! I wasn't hungry. I am sorry but I am not good company right now!"
Fallon closed her eyes, she knew her manners were kept well hidden, as she failed to even look at Krystle.
"That's ok. I am a good listener. You know you can always confide in me. Is it Jeff? You are not having problems with him?"
Krystle did not like to interfere, but she was a firm believer in sharing a problem to help cut down the worry load.
"Krystle! I am pregnant! I have told mother, but I intended announcing it to the rest of the family at dinner. But now I am not sure!"
Fallon sat up in bed and starred at Krystle.
"Pregnant! That is wonderful news Fallon! Jeff must be thrilled?"
Fallon got up from the bed and walked to the window, gazing out onto the spacious lawn.
" I haven't even told Jeff yet! I did plan too. But I just got a call from my Doctor. I am nine weeks pregnant!"
Krystle left the bedside and joined her at the window.
" You told Alexis first.. Before Jeff? What is the matter Fallon?"
Fallon sighed, pondering over whether to unburden her worries. Krystle stood waiting, still puzzled as to Fallon's dilemma.
"Krystle! I am nine weeks pregnant... Nine weeks ago I was with Miles in Malibu. Don't you see, Jeff is not the father of my baby!"
Fallon burst into tears, she could not contain herself any longer. Krystle wanted to hold her as if she was the baby, but Fallon ran out of the bedroom, leaving Krystle all alone.

The penthouse was engulfed in darkness, except perhaps for the intimate light of in the drinks bar. The silence disturbed by the clink of ice cubes dropping at regular intervals in the small refridgerator that chilled the Champagnes and Wines. The Cartier clock on the mantlepiece, ticking every second, heralding the arrival of upcoming time. However the silence was replaced with the sound of the elevator making its way up to the penthouse, the only entrance into the penthouse except for the fire escape!
Alexis had found it difficult to fall asleep, afraid of the nightmares that might invade her sleep. She suddenly sat up in bed, had she heard something down stairs? Maybe she was becoming paranoid. Hardly surprising considering the madman at large.
The elevator had reached it's destination, it's occupant steps out onto the penthouse floor. A flashlight guides the way, it's beam casting much needed light, falling on the many photo's that sat in Silver frames, photos of Cecil Colby, Amanda, Adam, Stephen & Dex. The torchlight remained on the photo of Dex for a moment longer than the others. 
Alexis decided she needed a drink to calm her nerves, she needed some rest, maybe a large Brandy would do the trick. Alexis got out of bed and put on her silk dressing gown, her favourite peach garment always felt warm and familar against her skin. A gift from Dex, he did have good taste for a man as rugged and macho as he had been. Slipping her feet into her Gucci mules and made her way to the top of the stairs leading down to the living area. Just as she was about to descend the stairs, she froze, she could hear subtle movement. She carefully put her head around the door and she could see a moving beam of light. She began to panic, but told herself she had to try and stay calm. She paused and took a deep breath, she had to confront the intruder. If it was Van Dorn, it was best it ended here tonight.
"Who is down there? I have a gun! I am not afraid to use it!  I warn you!"
She was lying, she had no gun, but she could think of nothing else to say. She began to descend the stairs, very slowly. She felt for the light switch and held her breath as she flicked the switch.
She wanted to close her eyes, but she needed to see the intruder. She looked around the room and almost screamed when she saw her intruder. But was he an intruder?
"Oh! My god"
She fell against the wall. Her hand to her throat in shock.
          "Dex! You are alive! God! Dex!!"            
TO BE CONTINUED
(C) 2011  Mark McMorrow..

Friday, February 18, 2011

PHOTO OF THE DAY : JOAN'S HAVING A GREY DAY!

This photo features Joan as the fearsome Mrs Heidelberg in the 1999 British Film "The Clandestine Marriage" ..

Thursday, February 17, 2011

ON THE COVER : NEW IDEA ..MARCH 2002...


This New Zealand issue of New Idea magazine features the official Wedding Photo of Joan & Percy from 2002..

PHOTO'S OF THE DAY ..... HAPPY ANNIVERSARY JOAN & PERCY..

MENU COVER
Wedding dinner menu..

Rare photo of Joan & Percy enjoying the wedding Disco!


Rare shot of Joan with Biggins & Cilla..
 Today is Joan & Percy's 9th wedding Anniversary and here are some photo's and a rare look at the Wedding day menu for the 2002 event held at Claridge's London...  Best Wishes to them both and here's to many more years of happiness....

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

PHOTO OF THE DAY : JOAN'S A NATURAL AT GLAMOUR!

This rare photo is from a shoot for a proposed magazine feature, taken backstage at The Old Vic, when Joan was appearing in "Over The Moon".. However the photo's were not used.. A lovely shot...

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

UPCOMING : CHECKING IN WITH JOAN & ROBERT!

JOAN WITH ROBERT AND JACK LEMMON IN ITALY 1961
Joan may get to see alot of her old friend Robert Wagner this year. As not only are they both slated to star in the motion picture "Unforgettable" for Tantric Productions and Karen Cadle, which will see Joan play one of Robert's former lovers, who turns up at his house at the same time as his other old flames, namely legends Tippi Hedren, Marisa Berensen and Debbie Reynolds. But now Joan has submitted an idea for a new sitcom, to be called, "Chateau, Chateau",in which she will star with Robert and is set to be filmed in Palm Springs. Both stars will run their own hotel and plenty of comic situations will ensue. Joan will back in the resort next month, when she co-hosts "The Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards" with another of her suave friends, George Hamilton. Watch this space!

PHOTO OF THE DAY : JOAN'S EARNED HER STRIPES AS A SUPERSTAR!

This little seen photo of Joan is from a  magazine shoot, this photo was not used in the final edition. A truly stylish shot Joan....

Monday, February 14, 2011

PHOTO OF THE DAY : VALENTINE'S WISHES!

Just to wish everyone a very Happy St Valentines Day!
Here is a photo of Joan & Percy at the reception at The Hotel Bel Air to celebrate renewing their wedding vows in March 2009.. Valentine Wishes to them both!


Sunday, February 13, 2011

PHOTO OF THE DAY : JOAN IS ALL SET FOR AN EXECUTIONER!

This rare photo features Joan on the set of the 1970 Columbia release "The Executioner" which also starred George Peppard and Judy Geeson.....

Saturday, February 12, 2011

PHOTO OF THE DAY : JOAN HAS THE SCENTS OF THE SPECTACULAR!

This rare candid photo features Joan at an event to promote her very own fragrance SPECTACULAR .. Not sure of the location..

DYNASTY REVISITED : ALEXIS! BEWARE!!

                                                              REVISITED
The sun had risen in Denver, unlike the occupant of the oppulent penthouse bedroom, who tossed and turned under her Pratesi sheets. Alexis Morell Carrington Colby Dexter Rowan opened her tired eyes. She felt like hell, after a sleepless night, filled with nightmares. How she wished she could spend the day recovering in her safe haven, but she had planned to meet Fallon for lunch. It seemed her daughter had some exciting news to tell her! Alexis reached over and took her Cartier hand mirror from her sidetable. God! she looked a sight, her stale make-up smudged, she been too tired to remove it the night before. Too much Champagne, after a night of celebrating her rescue from the clutches of the business madman Jeremy Van Dorn! Alexis knew she was lucky to be alive, if not for her son's intervention, she could have died in that filthy potting shed. Her wrists were still sore from been tied up, she still could almost taste the filthy rag, he had covered her mouth with. Alexis loved her children, they were all that really mattered to her, she loved all four of them with unconditional love. Fallon, Steven, Adam and Amanda.
Fallon, a strong independent woman, following so much in her mothers footsteps. Alexis was so glad that she finally had the good sense to patch things up with Jeff.
Jeffrey Colby was a wonderful, kind and gentle man and Fallon would never find another man like him. She had strayed from Jeff, into the arms of losers like Blake's former chauffeur Michael, not to mention the slimey Peter De Vilbis, another user. Heaven forbid she had married Miles Colby, son of the dreaded Sybil, her estranged cousin!
Then there was Steven, who was his own man and accepted wholeheartedly his sexuality, whilst breaking with convention. Alexis has always accepted her son's choices, all, except of course his confused dalliance with the little tramp niece of Krystle's, the sluttish Sammy Jo! Alexis was pleased that Blake had finally accepted Steven's lifestyle, after years of rejection. Steve was so happy now, living in Washington with Bart Falmont, whom he loved dearly. However, Bart was not the only man in his life, for he also loved another, his son Danny, and he cared for him, with his life.
Then there was Adam, still trying so hard to gain Blake's acceptance. Adam had betrayed her many times, but he was her son and she always found the strength to forgive him. Adam had committed his fair share of dirty dealings, from trying to poison Jeff, to acting as a mole in Denver Carrington. Whatever his faults, Alexis loved him, though for many years she thought she would never see him again, heartbroken by his kidnapping when he was just a baby.
Alexis lay back for another precious few minutes, taking comfort in thoughts of her children. But what of Amanda? She had not seen her daughter in six months. Amanda had gotten the impulsive whim of uprooting from her home and job in Paris, to go sailing around the world on a friends yacht. Amanda had great spirit, Alexis had that same spark in her youth, she too would just take off, whenever the mood took her. But Alexis Colby had lost her youth and now she really needed someone in her life, even though she told herself  she didn't need anyone, but she knew that she was only kidding herself. The men in her life had been many and most of them had been nothing but trouble.
Blake Carrington was the man she had always loved, if only he had found the time for her, instead of his precious Denver Carrington, then maybe their marriage may have had a chance. But maybe's were a fools thinking and Alexis found fools hard to bear.
Roger Grimes was a great lover and gave her the love and support that she was missing from Blake. But Roger had a darker side, as with the love and tenderness there was pain. She tried to block out the abuse he inflicted upon her and his death, a death caused by his cruel act of violence. Poor little Fallon, trying to protect her mother, from what she saw as a monster, when she pulled the trigger!
Cecil Colby had loved her and she loved him. If not for his weak heart, she was almost certain that they would still be together.
But she never did have any luck with men. She was crazy about Dex. What a hunk of a man, strong and sexy being his one crime. His one desperate mistake, the night he slept with the unspeakable slut Sybil, who insisted she be called Sable! The unforgettable fact that he had bedded Dex only added to the hatred she felt for her.
Alexis remembered that fateful day when both herself and Dex fell from the balcony of The Carlton hotel. If not for Dex breaking her fall, she might have died that day. It would have been easy to blame Adam, who pushed Dex that afternoon. But Sybil was the one who was to blame, sitting there with her heaving bosom, carrying Dex's baby. How she missed Dex. She often wondered about his child as she had not seen Sybil for quite some time.
Sean Rowan was another of her so called men, who turned out to be the biggest mistake of her life, one that almost cost her, her life.
Ironic, considering it was Sean Rowan who saved her from drowning, the reason for their meeting.
Alexis sighed, even her most recent man, Jeremy Van Dorn tried to kill her, another Bastard! She sure knew how to bring out the animal in men and not the kind she intended! Van Dorn tried to poison her with deadly fumes, but at least now he was safely locked up!!
Alexis sat up in bed as her daily help entered the room carrying a tray.
"Good morning Mrs Colby! I brought you a Bloody Mary. I was pretty sure you would need it! I think you should have a look at the morning paper!"
Alexis was intrigued, whatever was up? Blake up to his old tricks again or maybe his mighty empire was beginning to crumble again, even before the new foundations had cemented!
Alexis grabbed the paper from the silver tray and read the dreaded headlines.
                       " Alexis Colby cheats death
                             at the hands of
                          crazed industrialist
                         Jeremy Van Dorn"
A wave of terror overcame her and she shuddered as she remembered his rough treatment as he tied her up and gagged her and left her to die in the potting shed.
                     " Van Dorn foiled capture as phony
                        police drive him away from
                                          the
                            Carrington Mansion!"
Alexis sighed, putting her hand to her throat, as if Van Dorn was crawling up the bed to finish the job he had started in the shed. She began to panic and jumped out of the bed, abandoning the Bloody Mary. She had to get ready to meet Fallon, she needed to see her, she now had that maniac to worry about all over again.



Adam Carrington sat at his desk in his office at Colby co, he had never felt this happy in a long time. He had fallen in love with Kirby Anders all over again, although he had never really fallen out of love with her. He still regretted the night he raped her. If only the baby had survived, the product of that rape. But that was all in the past and they had a future to look forward to. He only hoped his dear mother did not try to interfere like she did all those years ago and try to sell Kirby off, her excuse that she be a mere servant girl!"
"Mr Carrington! Miss Anders is here to see you!"
Adams secretary buzzed him on the intercom.
"You can tell her to come on in."
He no sooner finished the sentence, when she was in the room and standing in front of him.
"Kirby! I was just thinking about you!"
Kirby smiled down at him, she did love him, though she still had not forgotten the past. She could not help but remember the pain and guilt she suffered after that night. But he convinced her he was truly sorry, somehow that was all that really mattered now.
"Adam! Champagne! Are you celebrating something? Did they recapture Van Dorn?"
Kirby took the glass of cool bubbly that he had just handed her. 
" I read in the paper today he had escaped. Those police officers that came to the mansion were part of his organisation!"
Adam jumped up from his seat. He could not believe it, however that explained how the police had turned up so quickly, as no one had remembered calling them. He had to ring his mother. Alexis would be in a panic. But he was all geared up to ask Kirby an important question, if he let the moment slip away, he doubted he would get the courage to do so again.
"Kirby! I need to ask you something really important! I know we have only been reunited a short time. I don't want to lose you again. Will you marry me? Please!"
Adam held her hand and gave her a lingering kiss, as she stared into his eyes, nervous and excited, yet confused as to how she would answer his question.

 "Fallon! Darling!"
Alexis glided up to her daughter's table wearing a black Thierry Mugler suit, she felt as if she was in mourning, thoughts of Dex and the shadow of Jeremy Van Dorn looming in the background.  Alexis took her seat, out of breath in the rush to get there.
"Mother! Late again? Fashionably no doubt!"
Fallon knew her mother only too well.
"Sorry darling! I'm a stickler for tradition. Have you heard the awful news? That bastard! Van Dorn has escaped. He is out there somewhere."
Fallon sat open-mouthed, not quite knowing what to say.
"Are you serious? Here I thought I was the one with news. You will never believe it mother!"
Alexis was more than curious.
"Darling. Today I would believe almost anything. I mean who would have entertained the idea that Krystle would ever wake up from that coma. Let alone make it all the way back here to Denver, all on her own!"
Fallon had to agree, that the chances of that occuring were almost a miracle.
"At least father is happy again. Mother! I had some tests taken. The thing is I am pregnant!"
Alexis gasped at the news. She was overjoyed. At last some good news today! The waiter poured both ladies a cool glass of Cristal to celebrate the forthcoming arrival. Lunch was a Salad Nicoise, some fizzy mineral water and the remainder of the Champagne, of course!


The Carrington Mansion stood majestic as ever, it's exterior untouched except by age. It's interior had undergone a total overhaul when Blake was sent to prison. But that was in the past and Blake was now a free man, who was reunited with the woman he loved and their special little girl, Krystina. Blake had begun to rebuild Denver Carrington, he was determined to put it back on top. He also vowed to spend more time with his family. He had almost lost Krystle, he was damned if that was goling to happen again. Blake had just finished lunch and he was due back at the office. It was just like old times, with his work to occupy him. But some things never change, as an unexpected visitor had arrived.
"Blake! Have you heard the news?"
Alexis stomed into the study. Her Sable stole wrapped around her like a python.
"Alexis! When will you ever learn that you no longer live in this house and you can't come and go when you please!"
Blake poured himself a scotch. Alexis always brought out the thirst in him.
"It's Van Dorn! He has escaped. Has nobody told you? Those so called police were working for him and he drove straight out of here!"
Blake almost choked on his drink. He had been certain that Jeremy had really been arrested. So much for the Denver police force.
"Are you certain? Damn him! Why wasn't I informed before now. That is all I need. I am damned if I am going to keep looking over my shoulder."
Blake knew Jeremy Van Dorn was dangerous, having tried to kill Jeff in Switzerland. Alexis in the shed and even himself, if not for Adam, Steven and Jeff's intervention.
"What about my shoulder? That monster tried to kill me too. That is typical of you Blake. To hell with everyone else!"
Alexis was furious, but she never really expected any sympathy from the mighty Blake Carrington.
"Listen! Alexis. I have my family to protect and you are more than capable of looking after yourself. That I am certain of."
Blake was concerned for everyone's safety, but what could he do but organise some tougher security measures. Alexis left, as she had arrived in a whirlwind of fury. She knew help did not lie here.


                                                                                                                                                                      
Alexis had made it safely back to her penthouse. She felt uneasy and it was now that she could definately do with a man around. She loathed loose ends and Van Dorn was almost certainly that! She shivered at the thoughts that she had taken that Dutch madman into her bed. She did have to admit he had been a good lover. One thing was certain, he would never get his hands on her again, for pleasure or pain.
She poured herself a large Brandy and lit up a cigarette. She was suddenly startled by the phone ringing. It was the lobby security to inform her that a delivery boy was on his way up with a package.
The elevator doors opened and the cute courier stepped into the penthouse.
"Mrs Colby? Delivery. I need a signature!"
She scribbled her signature and he handed her an oblong box with told her they were flowers.
"Roses! How lovely! But from whom?"
When the cute delivery boy had left she tore open the small gold envelope that accompanied the flowers. She read the short message, which instantly sent chills through her very soul, causing her to fling the roses across the room. She stared and stared at the card and read the message again and again..
" ALEXIS BEWARE!! "

                   To be continued.............

(c) 2011..  Mark McMORROW..

Friday, February 11, 2011

PHOTO OF THE DAY : JOAN DEMONSTRATES THE ART OF LIPPY!

This rare photo features Joan in her dressing room at Pinewood Studios putting the finishing touches to her makeup for her role as Stella in the 1953 drama "Turn The Key Softly".....

Thursday, February 10, 2011

PHOTO OF THE DAY : JEWELS FOR JOAN IS A SIDELINE!

This little seen photo features Joan promoting her 80's range of Jewellry.. As she had many various lines I am not quite sure which.. It could be her Beverly Hills line....Joan as ever looks stunning..

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

COMING SOON : DYNASTY REVISITED !!


Back in 1992 I joined the last incarnation of "The Official Joan Collins Fan Club" and was a member until it folded in the 2000's.. During my time a member as well as contributing film articles and stories based around Joan, I also wrote a monthly series following on from "Dynasty The Reunion".. This ran for a few years until it was decided that we saturated the newsletter with "Dynasty" and Joan was eager to feature other aspects of her career. As "Dynasty" is back in vogue as were, with talks of a proposed movie, I decided it might be an oppurtunity to dust off those old chapters of "Dynasty: Revisited" and feature them here on the blog! So every Saturday, starting this week you can read my updated versions of the 90's fan club series! Watch this space!!

PHOTO OF THE DAY : IT MUST BE TIME TO THROW THE BOUQUET!

Here is another photo  featuring Joan & Percy from March 2009 in the gardens of the Hotel Bel Air where they renewed their wedding vows in front of a gathering of family and friends. Among those in the photo are Betsy Bloomingdale, Nikki Haskell & Evie Bricusse.. Joan & Percy celebrate their 9th wedding anniversary on February 17th..

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

PHOTO OF THE DAY : JOAN'S A SPECIAL LADY ON VIDEO!

This rare photo features Joan in a scene from the 1980 video release "The Joan Collins Home Video Special", which has since been released under different titles over the years.. Including "Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Joan Collins But Afraid To Ask!". and "The Making Of Joan Collins". The special hosted by Michael Parkinson featured Joan putting on her makeup from scratch...her workout routine..having lunch with friends Bruce Oldfield and Vivian Ventura..filming the Cinzano Commercials..posing for a sculpture..talking about her career with Michael..and lots more..

CANDID JOAN : DARLING! THIS VF PARTY INVITE IS SO LAVISH!

Joan relaxes on a well deserved break with a copy of her favourite magazine ..Maybe she is getting in the mood for the upcoming Vanity Fair Oscars Party later this month.. An event she frequently attends!! Thanks to Joan for sharing this exclusive photo from her secret holiday isle!

Monday, February 7, 2011

DVD ALERT : DYNASTY SEASON 6 .. REG 2 RELEASE..

Just a reminder that season 6 of "Dynasty" is now available to buy in the UK. I recieved my copy a couple of weeks ago.. Luckly for us the series is released in one package, unlike the USA editions which are split into two releases.. Hopefully the remaining 3 seasons will follow shortly.. Watch this space!

PHOTO OF THE DAY : IS THAT A MERMAID? OH NO IT'S JOAN!

This rare photo features Joan filming a scene for the 1953 comedy "Our Girl Friday" aka "The Adventures of Sadie".. which also stars George Cole and Kenneth More, Joan plays Sadie Patch a spoilt girl who ends up on a deserted island with three men, after their ship sinks...

Sunday, February 6, 2011

PHOTO OF THE DAY : JOAN HAS A FAN OF HER OWN!

This stunning photo features Joan as Mrs Heidelberg in the 1999 drama "The Clandestine Marriage".. A fine film which also starred Nigel Hawthorne..

Saturday, February 5, 2011

PHOTO OF THE DAY : JOAN HAS A HART TO HART WITH STEFANIE!

This photo is another from Joan's day at The Hotel Bel Air in March 2009 where she renewed her vows to Percy in  front of a gathering of family and friends, including Joan's longtime friend Stefanie Powers....

Friday, February 4, 2011

PHOTO OF THE DAY : JOAN POSES WHILE PARTYING!

This lovely photo of Joan was taken last year at a party, however I do not know the event taking place. But it's a good shot so wanted to share!

EVENT ALERT : INVEST IN FUTURES GALA DINNER .. FEBRUARY 3RD 2011

JOAN & PERCY AT THE GALA DINNER..





JOAN THE ULTIMATE HOLLYWOOD DIVA!
Joan attended an exclusive Gala dinner at The Natural History Museum in London a few hours ago in aid of The Princes Trust.. The Invset In Future's Gala sponosored by Banks of America / Merrill Lynch was attended by a host of VIP'S and Investors. Rod Stewart and wife Penny also attended and sat with Joan while entertainment was by the legendary Dionne Warwick and the duo Fuse... As always Joan looked sensational at the event...


ROD & PENNY..


JOAN WITH FUSE WHO PROVIDED ENTERTAINMENT!

Thursday, February 3, 2011

FAN PHOTO OF THE DAY : LUCAS'S LAST NIGHT WITH JOAN!

Another big admirer of Joan's is international personality Lucas Alexander, who divides his time between LA, New York, London, Berlin and his family home in Copenhagen. Lucas who is a singer and an actor flew into Birmingham to catch the last night of "Dick Whittington". He was delighted to catch up with Joan after the show. Check out http://www.lucasalexander.dk/  for more!..